TCT-X901A Thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity tester – laser flash method

TCT-X901A Thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity tester - laser flash method

Thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity tester - laser flash method is one of the most advanced and widely used techniques for measuring the thermal diffusivity (α) of materials and subsequently calculating the thermal conductivity (λ).

Its core advantages lie in its high measurement speed, extremely wide temperature range, broad material applicability, non-contact operation, and small sample size. Although it has certain requirements in sample preparation, data processing models, and indirect calculation of λ, it has become an indispensable thermophysical property testing tool in materials science research (new material development) and industrial quality control (such as electronic heat dissipation materials, aerospace thermal barrier coatings, nuclear materials, and battery materials). Understanding its principles, processes, advantages, and disadvantages is crucial for the correct use of the instrument and the interpretation of data.

Implementation standard

‌ASTM E1461 - 22，‌HB 5484-2011，‌YS/T 1257-2018，‌JC/T 2370-2016

GBT 42919.4-2023

‌ISO 18755:2005

‌ISO 22007-4:2017

‌GB/T 22588-2008

GB/T 10297

‌GB/T 35965-2018；

‌GB/T 32065.4-2020

Main Technical parameters

Model	TCT-X901A
Control System	PLC control system + Windows system
User Interface	Desktop computer (12th generation i3-12100, 8G, 512G) 23.8-inch eye-protection screen, curve display, WiFi connection, Chinese/English switching
Laser Element	Infrared detector
Test Environment	Standard recommended testing in a simulated physiological environment (such as physiological saline or other simulated body fluids conforming to ISO 13779-1) at 37°C ± 2°C
Standard Configuration	Thermostatic bath 0-99°C accuracy ±1°C
Heating Source	Quartz furnace
Sample Size Range	Φ12×(0.1-5)mm
Temperature Range	Ambient temperature to 1200°C
Thermal Conductivity Test  Range	0.1～2000 w/m.k
Computer	Simultaneously calculates multiple thermal parameters such as thermal diffusivity (thermal conductivity) and specific heat capacity
Test Environment	Inert gas
Laser Source Power	200W adjustable
Test Accuracy	±3%
Communication with Computer	Uses fully automatic testing software for fast and accurate analysis of sample test process parameters and report output
Repeatability	Deviation between two measurements <±3%
Printer	Embedded micro printer
Power Supply	AC 220V±10﹪; 50~60Hz; 500W
Dimensions	1200*820*1700mm
Net Weight	220 kgs

Main features:

Pulsed Laser: Provides short, high-energy-density light pulses (commonly Nd lasers). The wavelength needs to be matched to the absorption characteristics of the sample or coating.

Sample Chamber/Furnace: Provides a controllable temperature environment, with built-in precise temperature control and measurement devices (such as thermocouples).

Sample Holder: Precisely positions the sample, ensuring uniform laser illumination of the front surface and maintaining precise alignment with the infrared detector.

Infrared Detector: Quickly and sensitively detects changes in the temperature of the sample's back surface over time (commonly liquid nitrogen-cooled InSb, MCT detectors, or other fast-response detectors).

Data Acquisition System: A high-speed acquisition card that accurately records the time series of laser pulse signals and infrared detector signals.

Control System and Software:

Controls laser emission.

Controls the sample chamber temperature.

Acquires and processes temperature data.

Calculates α and λ using mathematical models.

Stores, displays, and analyzes the results.

Optical system: (optional/integrated) used to guide and focus the laser beam onto the front surface of the sample, or to focus the radiation from the rear surface onto an infrared detector.

Limitations and Precautions of the Laser Flash Method

High Sample Requirements: Parallel, smooth, and flat thin-film samples are required. Sample thickness needs to be accurately measured (a key parameter in the calculation).

Transparent/Semi-transparent Material Processing: The front surface needs to be coated with an absorption layer. The thermal conductivity and thickness of the coating itself will affect the results, requiring correction or selection of a suitable coating.

Indirectness of Thermal Conductivity λ: λ is calculated from α, ρ, and Cp. Measurement errors in ρ and Cp will be passed to the error in λ. Cp usually needs to be measured by other equipment (such as DSC) or obtained by comparison (comparison with a reference sample with known thermal properties) on the same equipment.

Model Dependence: The calculation results depend on the data processing model used. Selecting and applying an appropriate correction model is crucial for accuracy.

Radial Heat Loss: For materials with low thermal diffusivity or long-term measurements, heat loss at the sample edges cannot be ignored and needs to be corrected in the model.

Thin Film/Layer Measurement Challenges: Measuring very thin samples (<100μm) places extremely high demands on laser pulse width, detector response speed, and sample preparation accuracy.

Configuration List:

1. Main Unit (1 unit);
2. Testing Software (1 set);
3. Instruction Manual (1 copy);
4. Certificate of Conformity (1 copy);
5. Warranty Card (1 copy);
6. Receipt (1 copy);
7. Nameplate (1 piece);
8. Power Cord (1 piece);
9. Wrench Set (1 set);
10. Brochures (several);
11. Thermostatic Bath (1 unit)